Attractions & Landmarks In Velden am Wörther See
Velden am Wörther See, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural events.
One of the main attractions in Velden is the iconic Casino Velden, housed in a historic lakeside building. This popular casino offers a thrilling gambling experience, along with top-notch entertainment and dining options. The lakefront terrace provides breathtaking views, and the casino hosts various events throughout the year, ensuring there is always something exciting happening.
For those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wörthersee, Strandbad Velden is the perfect spot. This public beach caters to visitors of all ages, featuring a large lawn, sandy shore, swimming pier, water slide, and convenient facilities such as changing rooms, showers, and toilets. There is even a cozy cafe where you can grab a refreshing drink or a quick bite to eat. The beach is open from May to September and offers free admission, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled day by the lake.
Surrounding the casino and the lake is the serene Kurpark Velden, a beautiful park that offers a tranquil green space for relaxation. With its diverse flora, comfortable benches, elegant fountains, and captivating sculptures, the park is not only a peaceful retreat but also a venue for cultural events such as concerts and exhibitions. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere, Kurpark Velden is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
To explore the beauty of Lake Wörthersee and its surroundings, consider taking a ride on the Schifffahrt Velden ferry service. This scenic and convenient transportation option connects Velden with other towns and attractions around the lake, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views. The ferry operates from April to October, and tickets can be purchased onboard or online.
For all your tourist information needs, make sure to visit Wörthersee Tourismus. Located on the main street, this center provides useful information, maps, brochures, and tips for visitors. Additionally, they offer booking services for accommodation, activities, and events, ensuring you make the most of your time in Velden am Wörther See.
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, don’t miss the Worthersee Rundfahrt biking trail. This 40 km trail circles around Lake Wörthersee, passing through Velden and other towns and villages along the way. Suitable for cyclists of all levels, the trail offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s nature, culture, and history.
For a glimpse into the town’s history and architecture, visit Pfarre Velden am Wörther See, the parish church located near the casino. This Gothic-style church dates back to the 15th century and boasts a tower, a nave, and a choir. With its stained glass windows, paintings, and sculptures, the church is a treasure trove of beauty and spirituality.
As you explore Velden am Wörther See, you may come across Villa Helene, an architectural gem perched on a hill overlooking the town and the lake. Built in 1893 by a wealthy industrialist and designed by a renowned architect, this Art Nouveau villa features a curved facade, a tower, and a balcony. While it is privately owned and not open to the public, you can still admire its beauty from the outside.
Another notable landmark is Kaiserbrunnen, a fountain located in the town center near the casino. Erected in 1906 to commemorate Emperor Franz Joseph I’s visit to Velden, the fountain showcases a bronze statue of the emperor surrounded by allegorical figures representing the seasons. This fountain serves as a symbol of the town’s history and prestige.
For a glimpse into Velden’s medieval past, visit Schlosstor Velden, a historic gate marking the entrance to the castle of Velden. Built in 1590, this gate features a coat of arms, a clock, and a bell, serving as a reminder of the town’s rich heritage.
Velden Castle
Velden Castle, located on the western shore of Lake Wörthersee in Carinthia, is a grand palace characterized by a rectangular floor plan and four pentagonal towers at the corners, each adorned with unique hooded roofs and lanterns. The eastern front facing the lake boasts three storeys with arched windows, doors on the ground floor, and continuous balconies above. In contrast, the western front, elevated and overlooking the park, features only two storeys with a hipped roof, dormers leading to two attic floors, and a north portal dating back to 1603, marked with banded pilasters and the coat of arms of Bartholomäus Khevenhüller and his three wives.
Adjacent to the main building is a medium-sized structure painted in the same Schönbrunn yellow color. A longer building on the western side matches this color scheme, and between them stands the old and rustic north portal, leading to the north-west tower through a connecting passage. Biforen windows above the round-arched west portal are remnants from the castle’s construction.
The castle park is now enclosed by a new U-shaped two-story building, with its reception relocated from the north portal to the new structure. To the south lies the Schloßteich, consisting of two fish farming pools draining into Lake Wörthersee and fed by the Bäckerteich located 500 meters to the west.
The Schlosshotel, part of the castle complex, includes a private lido with a restaurant and jetty. In 2011, Amisola Immobilien AG, owned by Karl Wlaschek, acquired the property from Hypo Alpe Adria. Since 2012, the Falkensteiner Michaeler Tourism Group has managed the hotel, and in 2013, a modern 3,600 m² spa area was added. The hotel is now owned by The Leading Hotels of the World.
Augsdorf Parish Church
Augsdorf’s Roman Catholic parish church, located in the town of Augsdorf within Velden am Wörther See, Carinthia, holds historical and architectural significance. Protected as a monument, both the church and the cemetery, including the chapel, contribute to the town’s cultural heritage.
Originally a fortified church, the structure’s history dates back to 1162/1164, marked by an altar consecration with Bishop Roman I of Gurk. The Romanesque church underwent significant modifications, including the addition of a massive tower during the 15th-century Turkish invasions. In the 16th century, Gothic aisles expanded the Romanesque nave, while a Gothic choir was erected. A cemetery surrounding the church was established in 1707.
Architecturally, the Romanesque structure features a nave with a straight chancel, a flat ceiling, and a west tower adorned with gables and a pyramidal helmet. A Crucifixion group by painter Peter Markovi graces the southern side of the tower, and a sacristy lies to the south of the Gothic choir. The church’s entrance includes a Gothic west gateway with lancet windows in the choir. Noteworthy is a wrought-iron grave cross from around 1720 on the west side.
The central nave, linked to Gothic side aisles by round-arched arcades, exhibits barrel vaults with lunettes. The tower’s three-axis west gallery features a lower ceiling and a curved balustrade. The choir, retracted with a pointed triumphal arch, includes a Gothic sacramental niche on the north side. A Romanesque sacristy doorway with an iron plate door is found in the chancel.
The baroque high altar, dating to around 1700, is a prominent feature with columns and intricate acanthus design. The late 18th-century tabernacle and a baroque carving of the Madonna of the Protective Mantle adorn the altar. Additional elements include a relief of the Last Supper by Val Gardena sculptor Josef Obletter and side altars with figures like Michael, Katharina, Barbara, and Oswald.
The Stations of the Cross, created in 1915 by Peter Markovi, draw inspiration from the Führich Stations of the Cross. The church’s organ, crafted by Josef Grafenauer in 1904, adds to its artistic and musical richness. The historical bells, mentioned in records dating back to 1453 and 1687, contribute to the church’s longstanding presence in Augsdorf.
Parish church Velden am Wörther See
The Velden am Wörther See Roman Catholic parish church, located on the western edge of the hamlet in the municipality of Velden am Wörther See, Carinthia, serves as a spiritual center dedicated to Our Lady. Forming part of the Rosegg/Roek deanery within the Diocese of Gurk, the church has a rich history and architectural significance.
Established in 1949 as an autonomous parish branch of the Kranzlhofen parish church, the current structure, erected in 1937, showcases the distinctive Wörthersee style. Architect Franz Baumgartner designed the church, with subsequent additions such as the vestibule in 1962. In 1988, a comprehensive interior refurbishment took place, including the restoration of the 1938 color scheme.
The west-facing church comprises a north aisle and a tower positioned at the nave’s south-east corner. Inside, the nave and aisle share a level ceiling, and a semicircular triumphal arch connects to the vaulted chancel with a semicircular termination.
The interior hosts notable artistic elements, including the historic high altar and two side altars designed by sculptor Andreas Crepaz in 1942. The winged high altar depicts scenes from the Old Testament on the left and wooden reliefs of Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost on the right. The substructure portrays the victims of Abel and Melchizedech. The left side altar features reliefs depicting episodes from Jesus’ life, while the right side altar depicts St. Hemma with the Gurk church model and St. Peter with the model of St. Peter’s Basilica, along with St. Teresa.
An additional artistic highlight is the Pietà from the third quarter of the 17th century, mounted on a console from the former church on the left wall of the nave. This piece contributes to the church’s historical and religious ambiance.
Jeserzer See
The Jeserzer See, also referred to as the Saisser See, stands as a prominent lake within the municipality of Velden am Wörthersee, positioned on the ridge north of the Wörthersee. Serving as the central element of the Jeserzer See natural reserve, this lake boasts distinctive characteristics and ecological features.
Situated at an elevation of 593 meters, the Jeserzer See covers a surface area of 13.3 hectares. Nestled in a bog atop ancient crystalline rock, the lake is surrounded by neighboring hilltops reaching heights of up to 693 meters. With a maximum depth of 6.6 meters, the lake’s inflow is limited to small rivulets, resulting in a gentle flow and summer water temperatures exceeding 25 °C, establishing the Jeserzer See as a popular bathing lake. The presence of adjacent moorland imparts a slightly brownish hue to the water.
Underwater vegetation in the lake is notably extensive. Stoneworts dominate at depths ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 meters, forming a dense carpet. Shallow areas feature thousand leaves, while Krause pondweed thrives on the west bank. The white water lily makes sporadic appearances. Natural shorelines are characterized by cutting reeds and reeds, with black alders growing near the outflow on the north bank. The beach area is often marked by oscillating grass, fostering the growth of peat moss and sundew.
The name variations, Saisser and Jeserzer See, can be attributed to linguistic evolution. The term “jezero,” meaning ‘the lake,’ has undergone changes over time. The name Saisser, and more recently Jeserzer, carry historical significance. The linguistic connection to “za-jezer[om],” signifying ‘behind the lake,’ is derived from the place name (Ober-)Jeserz.
Casino Velden
Casino Velden, nestled in the idyllic town of Velden on the shores of Lake Wörthersee, stands as a premier destination offering a combination of lively entertainment, exquisite dining, and breathtaking views. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, the casino caters to a diverse audience seeking a refined and cultured lifestyle.
The establishment hosts a myriad of events throughout the year, including concerts, shows, tournaments, and themed nights, ensuring there is something for every taste. The VIP lounge adds an extra layer of exclusivity, providing a space to enjoy champagne, cocktails, and snacks, complemented by attentive service.
Velden itself presents a stunning panorama of Lake Wörthersee, widely regarded as one of Austria’s most beautiful lakes. Beyond the allure of the casino, the lake offers a plethora of recreational activities, from water sports like sailing and surfing to land-based pursuits such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The cultural richness of the area is evident in historical landmarks, monuments, and museums dotting the lake’s shores.
Velden captures a charming Mediterranean ambiance, accentuated by a lively promenade, inviting cafés, high-end restaurants, and vibrant bars. As daylight wanes, the town transforms into a dynamic hub of nocturnal activity. The casino contributes to the vibrant nightlife, and the streets are lined with an array of clubs, pubs, and discos. Particularly noteworthy are the White Nights, a series of summer events featuring live music, fireworks, and a captivating light show on the lake.
Casino Velden epitomizes the epitome of a multifaceted destination, seamlessly blending entertainment, gastronomy, and scenic beauty. The casino’s diverse offerings cater to a discerning audience seeking a refined lifestyle, while the town of Velden and the picturesque Lake Wörthersee provide a backdrop of cultural richness and recreational opportunities. Whether indulging in gaming, fine dining, or simply savoring the vibrant atmosphere, Casino Velden offers an all-encompassing experience for those in search of a life well-enjoyed.
Golf course Velden-Köstenberg
The Golf Course Velden-Köstenberg, situated in Köstenberg-Velden, Carinthia, Austria, is a semi-private 18-hole golf course designed by Hans-Georg Erhardt and Kurt Rossknecht, inaugurated in 1989. Nestled at an elevation of 700 meters, the course boasts a scenic setting surrounded by forests and natural wetlands, providing an engaging experience for golfers at all skill levels.
With a par of 72 and a length of 6319 meters from the white tees, the course offers a challenging layout, incorporating a variety of holes, from long par 5s to short par 3s. The inclusion of water hazards and bunkers further enhances the course’s level of difficulty. The course features additional amenities such as a driving range, practice area, golf school, pro shop, and a clubhouse complete with a restaurant and bar.
Open seasonally from March to November, weather permitting, the course welcomes visitors every day with advance booking. The green fee for a day ticket is 95 euros, with discounted rates available for juniors and twilight players. Hosting various tournaments and events throughout the year, the golf course contributes to the vibrant golfing community.
Beyond the golfing experience, Velden-Köstenberg is celebrated for its popularity among golf enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and alpine ambiance of the region. Its proximity to the renowned Wörther Lake, a major tourist attraction offering diverse recreational activities and cultural points of interest, adds to its appeal. Accessible by car or public transport from nearby cities like Villach and Klagenfurt, the golf course seamlessly blends sport and nature, providing a compelling destination for those seeking both golfing challenges and the scenic charm of Carinthia.
Strandbad Velden
Strandbad Velden, situated in Velden am Wörthersee, Austria, is a historic public beach area with a rich legacy dating back to its opening in 1898. Over the years, it has undergone renovations and expansions, now covering an extensive 12,000 square meters.
This beach facility provides a comprehensive range of amenities, including changing rooms, showers, toilets, lockers, sunbeds, umbrellas, a playground, a beach volleyball court, a mini-golf course, a restaurant, a bar, and a kiosk. Operating seasonally from May to September, between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., visitors can access the beach for a nominal fee, with 6 euros for adults, 4 euros for children, and a family package for 13.40 euros. Season tickets and discounted options with the Wörthersee Card are also available.
Strandbad Velden is a haven for relaxation, allowing guests to bask in the sun, revel in the pristine waters, and appreciate the panoramic views of the nearby mountains and forests. The summer water temperatures of Lake Wörthersee, reaching up to 25°C, create an ideal environment for various water activities, including swimming, boating, sailing, surfing, diving, and fishing.
The strategic location of Strandbad Velden provides proximity to other attractions in Velden am Wörthersee, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Notable nearby sites include the renowned Casino Velden, the scenic Kurpark, Wörthersee Tourismus, and the historic Schloss Velden, a castle transformed into a luxurious hotel.
As one of the premier attractions in Velden am Wörthersee, Strandbad Velden stands out as a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, culture aficionados, and those seeking recreational activities. Its combination of historical significance, scenic beauty, and an array of facilities make it a pivotal aspect of the vibrant offerings in this Austrian holiday resort town.
